CA2254384C - Folding auger - Google Patents
Folding auger Download PDFInfo
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- CA2254384C CA2254384C CA 2254384 CA2254384A CA2254384C CA 2254384 C CA2254384 C CA 2254384C CA 2254384 CA2254384 CA 2254384 CA 2254384 A CA2254384 A CA 2254384A CA 2254384 C CA2254384 C CA 2254384C
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- housing
- auger
- conveyor
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
- B65G21/00—Supporting or protective framework or housings for endless load-carriers or traction elements of belt or chain conveyors
- B65G21/10—Supporting or protective framework or housings for endless load-carriers or traction elements of belt or chain conveyors movable, or having interchangeable or relatively movable parts; Devices for moving framework or parts thereof
- B65G21/14—Supporting or protective framework or housings for endless load-carriers or traction elements of belt or chain conveyors movable, or having interchangeable or relatively movable parts; Devices for moving framework or parts thereof to allow adjustment of length or configuration of load-carrier or traction element
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
- B65G33/00—Screw or rotary spiral conveyors
- B65G33/24—Details
- B65G33/32—Adaptations of bearings or couplings for supporting and connecting screws
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Threshing Machine Elements (AREA)
- Framework For Endless Conveyors (AREA)
Abstract
A conveyor for transporting grain or the like consists of three or more sections foldable about two axes of rotation displaced from each other. Separate retractors operate to fold the conveyor about the two axes. A link connecting the first and second retractors permits a single actuator to fully fold the conveyor about the two axes. The first and second axes may be rotationally displaced from each other by about 90°.
Description
FOLDING AUGER
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to materials transport, such as grain or the like. In particular, the invention relates to a foldable auger, comprising an auger tube and auger flighting, for use in transporting grain or other particulate or fluid material. The auger comprises three or more sections that may be folded in on themselves for transport or storage, with the folding being actuated by a single hydraulic cylinder or other like actuating means.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In a mobile conveying apparatus, for example a transportable grain auger apparatus, it is desirable to provide a means whereby a lengthy elongate conveyor may be folded for storage and transport. Typical grain conveyors incorporate a lengthy auger, comprising an auger tube, auger ffighting and drive means for rotating the auger. It can be awkward to transport and store such apparatus. Foldable conveyors, including foldable augers, are known in the prior art. For example, U.S. Patent 3,337,068 (Meharry) discloses an auger arrangement, wherein the main auger flighting and housing is foldable in two parts about a central hinged joint. The respective auger flightings in the first and second parts are keyed together when the auger is unfolded for use to permit the flighting in the first part to rotatably drive the flighting of the second part. One drawback of the arrangement disclosed in this reference is that the operator is required to manually fold the auger, which may be difficult if the auger is heavy or is positioned inaccessibly. As well, two-part folding of the auger may not suffciently compact the unit for transport or storage. The first drawback has been addressed in the art by providing a power-driven arrangement for folding an auger or other conveyor.
For example, U.S. Patent 3,550,793 (Davidow et al.) discloses a folding auger, wherein the folding and unfolding operation is driven by a hydraulic cylinder. A similar arrangement is shown in U.S. Patent 4,427,105 (Hawley et al.).
It is further known to provide conveyors foldable in three or more parts to provide for more ,. 2 compact storage or transport. For example, U.S. latent 4,69,262 (van Aalst) discloses a pneumatic duct foldable in three parts, and supported by a folding, hydraulically driven exterior frame. Folding of the ti-ame i~ ~t~ected by a separate hydraulic cylinder mounted at each fold.
It is desirable to provide an aug~r~type cc,nveyor that is foldable in three or more sections into a relatively compact unit, and wherein a. i,irrgle hydraulic cylinder or other motive force effects the folding operation. The use ol' a single cylinder, rather than a separate cylinder at each joint, reduces the cost and complexity of the device and also permits a coordinated folding operation ofthe conveyor without the need fear ~;orytrolling and coordinating multiple hydraulic cylinders. Such an operation°i i5 possible through the use of' tie rods that link adjacent conveyor sections, with a single hydraulic cylinder nerving both to drive the folding of adjacent sections and actuate tla~ tie rod car reds.
Tt is also desirable to provide a conveyor foldable in three or more sections, wherein the folding occurs on intersecting planes. Thus, l«r example, a proximal and middle conveyor section might fold on a horizontal plane and the distal section fold on a vertical plane. This arrangement can permit a more compact folding of the conveyor, and is particularly useful where the conveyor extends from a large piece of ecluipnaent such as a grain vacuum device.
In this case, the proximal sections of the conveyor should field irt a vertical plane to permit a section of the conveyor to rest on top ot'the equipment, while the distal conveyor section is conveniently folded on a horizontal lal~~ne., ire order that it nray lie beside the proximal folded sections of the conveyor.
The terms "proximal" and "distal" used herein are directional references referring to positions close to and distant fiom, respectively, the att:ack3nrent point or base of the auger.
SUNflVIARY OF THE INVEh1TI01~1 It is an aspect of the present invention to pr°ovid~ conveyor and conveyor housing foldable in three or more parts, and wherein folding is effected by means of a single hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder or other actuator means. It is a further aspect to provide a folding conveyor, wherein the proximal sections ofthe conve.yar housing fold along a first plane and the distal section folds on a second plane generally interesting the first plane.
The invention comprises in orre aspect a conveyor apparatus comprising an elongate conveyor housing and material transport means within the housing and comprising first, second and third conveyor sections pivotally~ained together, foldable about first and second pivot means between an extended coaxial arrangement and a folded non-coaxial arrangement and farming when fully extended, a unitary cc,~raveyor;
first retraction means connected to the second sectiarr to IK~Id tire first and second sections about a first axis;
second retraction means associated with said third section to fold said third section relative to said second section about a second axis; and linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby the first retraction means operatively drives said secaxnd r~etractiarr means to fold said third section relative to said second section.
Preferably, the second axis is rotationally displaced Ii~orn the first axis by about ~0 degrees.
In another aspect, the housing sections are joined together by first and second hinges, each comprising first and second hinge legs. Ea~;h of the hinge legs has a first end pivotally mounted to a respective conveyor housing section irabaard of a. corresponding end of said housing, and a second end meeting at are apex of' said hinge wherein said legs are pivotally pointed together at said apex, said hinge fornuir~g a generally triangular structure with said conveyor to longitudinally displace said sections apart loom each other as said sections are folded about said hinge. The first retraction means may be pivotally mounted at an end thereof to said first hinge at generally the ~Gpex thereafT.
Conveniently, the linkage means comprises a tie rod having first and second ends, said first Conveniently, the linkage means comprises a tie rod having first and second ends, said first end mounted to said first conveyor sec;tiorr .and said second end pivotally mounted to the third conveyor section.
In a further aspect, the invention comprises an auger comprising an auger housing and an auger flighting, said auger being foldable in at least three sections and comprising retraction means associated with said first and second sections arid operable between first and second positions whereby in said first position said first and second sections are fully extended and in said second position said sections are folded about a first axis; second retraction means associated with said third section arrd operabte between first and second positions whereby in said first position said third auger section is fully extended to relative to said second section and in said second position, said third section is folded relative to said second section about a second axis; and linkage rnearrs associated with said first and second retraction means whereby actuation of said first retractic:~n means operates said second retraction means between said first and second positions.
In another aspect, the present invention c~ompr ices a conveyor housing apparatus comprising a conveyor housing for connection to an auger system, the housing having a first conveyor section proximal to the auger system, at least second arvd third foldable conveyor sections foldable one relative to tire other, first pivot means lvr pivotally mounting the first and second sections about a. ~rst axis, whereby the second see,tiory is foldable about the first pivot axis, second pivot means for pivotally r~rounting the second and third sections about a second pivot axis whereby the third section is foldable about the second pivot axis, the first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial arrangement when folded, and when in a non-folded relationship, the first, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxial urutary conveyor, first retraction means associated with tlrcsecond section to fold the second section about the first axis, second retraction rrreans associated with the third section to fold the third section about the jecorrd axis, and floe first and second retraction means _~ aw being in operative association whereby actuation ofthe first retraction means is effective to permit the second retraction means to ti~rd the third section relative to the second section.
In another aspect, the present invention cranapr~ises a conveyor housing apparatus comprising an elongate conveyor housing and material transport rtleans within the housing, the conveyor housing having first, second and thiod conveyor sections pivotally joined together and foldable about first and second pivot ri3ean s between an extended coaxial arrangement and a folded non-coaxial arrangement and forming when fully extended, a unitary conveyor, first retraction means connected to the second section to fold the first and second sections about a first axis, actuation means for driving the first retraction means, second retraction means associated with the third section to permit 1'aldir~g of"the third section relative to the second section about a second axis, linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby actuation o#° the first retraction nieaivs by the actuation means synchronously drives the second retraction means to fold the third section relative to the second section, and first and second pivot r~rmans comprising first and second hinge means angularly displaced from each other, each of the hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, the legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from the conveyor housing for displacing the conveyor sections apart from each other when the hinges open.
According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an auger housing for enclosing an auger campr~ising a first proximal housing section for connection to an auger system, second and third foldable krc~usirig sections, first pivot means for pivotally mounting the first and second sections about a first axis, whereby the second section is foldable about the first pivot axis, second pivot means for pivotally mounting the second and third sections about a second pivot axis; whereby the third section is foldable about the second pivot axis, the first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial auger housing . ;.~ b _.
arrangement when folded, and when in a non~folded relationship, the fast, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxial unitary auger housing, first retraction means associated with the second section to tall the second section about the first axis, second retraction means associated with the third section to f~rld the third section about the second axis, the first and second retraction means being in operative association whereby actuation of the first retraction means is effective tc.~ permit the second retraction means to fold the third section relative to the second section.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an auger housing foldable in at least three sections comprising at least Iirst, second and third hauling sections first retraction means associated with the fiirst and ses~ond sections and operable between first and second positions whereby ire the first pcrsitian floe frr~st arrd second sections are fully extended and in the second position tl~e sectiarrs are fazded about a first axis, actuator means associated with the first retraction means, second retraa;tion means associated with the third section and operable between first and second pasiti~>ras whereby in the first ;position the third auger section il fully extended reiat.iv~; to tyre second section and in the second position, and the third section is folded relative, to the second section about a second axis, the second retraction means comprising lirika~;e means associated with the inrst and second retraction means whereby actuation af' tl~e tir-st r-etractiarr means by the actuator means operates the second retraction r~aearis b~.~tweer~ the Iirsr and second positions of the second and third sections.
In another aspect of the invention, there is ltrc:avided an auger comprising an auger housing and an auger flighting, the auger being fi~~ldable in at least three sections, the auger housing comprising f rst, second arrd third hausiry sections, lirvst retraction means associated with the first and second sections and operable between tir°sc a,nd second positions whereby in the first position the first and second sectiarrs ar°e fully extended and in the second position the _4c_ sections are folded about a first axis, actuator means associated with the first retraction means, second retraction means associated with the third section and operable between first and second positions whereby in the first position the third auger section is fully extended to relative to the second section and in the second position, the third section is folded relative to the second section about a second axis, linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby actuation of the first retraction means by the actuator means synchronously drives the second retraction means between the first and second positions, first and second pivot means comprising first and second hinge means angulariy displaced from each other, each of the hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, the legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from the conveyor housing for displacing the conveyor sections apart from each other when the hinges open, and a plurality of foldable releasably connectable auger flighting sections.
The present invention will now be described by way of a preferred embodiment.
In accordance with one embodiment of the present irlvention there is provided a conveyor housing apparatus comprising, a conveyor housing for connection to an auger system, the housing having a first conveyor section proximal to the auger system, at least second and third foldable conveyor sections foldable one relative to the other, first pivot means for pivotally mounting the first and second sections about a first axis, whereby the second section is foldable about the first pivot axis, second pivot means for pivotally mounting the second and third sections about a second pivot axis whereby the third section is foldable about the second pivot axis, the first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial arrangement when folded, and when in a non-folded relationship, the first, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxiial unitary conveyor, first retraction means associated with the second section to fold the second section about the first axis, actuation means to operate the first retraction means, -4d-second retraction means associated with the third section to fold the third section about the second axis, and, the first and second retraction means being in operative association whereby actuation of the first retraction means operatively drives the second retraction means to fold the third section relative to the second section.
In a second embodiment of the present invention there is provided a conveyor housing apparatus comprising an elongate conveyor housing and material transport means within the housing, the conveyor housing having first, second and third conveyor sections pivotally joined together and foldable about first and second pivot means between an extended coaxial arrangement and a folded non-coaxial arrangement and forming when fully extended, a unitary conveyor, first retraction means connected to the second section to fold the first and second sections about a first axis, actuation means 'for driving the first retraction means second retraction means associated with the third section to permit folding of the third section relative to the second section about a second axis, linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby actuation of the first retraction means by the actuation means synchronously drives the second retraction means to fold the third ~;ection relative to the second section, and first and second pivot means comprising first and second hinge means angularly displaced from each other, each of the hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, the legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from the conveyor housing for displacing the conveyor sections apart from each other when the hinges open.
In a third embodiment of the present invention there is provided an auger housing for enclosing an auger the auger housing comprising, a first proximal housing section for connection to an auger system, second and third foldable housing sections, first pivot means for pivotally mounting the first and second sections about a first axis, whereby the second section is foldable about the first pivot axis, second pivot means for pivotally mounting the second and third -4e-sections about a second pivot axis whereby the third section is foldable about the second pivot axis, the first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial auger housing arrangement when folded, and when in a non-folded relationship, b the first, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxial unitary auger housing, first retraction means associated with the second section to fold the second section about the first axis, actuation means. to operate the first retraction means, second retraction means associated with the third section to fold the third section about the second axis, and the first and second retraction means being in operative association whereby actuation of the first retraction means operatively drives the second retraction means to fold the third section relative to the second section.
In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention there is provided an auger housing foldable in at least three sections comprising, at least first, second and third housing sections, first retraction means associated with the first and second sections and operable between fiirst and second positions whereby in the first position the first and second sections are fully extended and in the second position the sections are folded about a first axis, actuator means associated with the first retraction means, second retraction means associated with the third section and operable between first and second positions whereby in the first position the third auger section is fully extended relative to the second section and in the second position, and the third section is folded relative to the second section about a second axis, and the second retraction means comprising linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby actuation of the first retraction means by the actuator means operates the second retraction means between the first and sE:cond positions of the second and third sections.
In accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an auger comprising, an auger housing and an auger flighting, the auger being foldable in at least three sections, the auger housing comprising, -4f-first, second and third housing sections, first retraction means associated with the first and second sections and operable between first and second positions whereby in the first position the first and second sections are fully extended and in the second position the sections are folded about a first axis, actuator means associated with the first retraction means, second rearaction means associated with the third section and operable between first and second positions whereby in the first position the third auger section is fully extended to relative to the second section and in the second position, the third section is folded relative to the second section about a second axis, linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby actuation of the first retraction means by the actuator means synchronously drives the second retraction means between the first and second positions, first and second pivot means comprising first and second hinge means angularly displaced from each other, each of the hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, the legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from the conveyor housing for displacing the conveyor sections apart from each other when the hinges open, and a plurality of foldable releasably connectable auger flighting sections.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of an auger according to the present invention, in extended position and mounted to a grain vacuum apparatus, with the auger folding means removed for illustration of the auger components;
Figure 2 is a perspective view as in Figure 1, illustrating the auger in a partly folded position;
Figure 3 is a perspective view, showing the auger in folded position;
Figure 4 is a further perspective view of the device in the extended position;
-S-Figure 5 is a side elevational view of the device in the extended position;
and Figure 6 is a side elevational view of the device in a partly-folded position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIIVVIENT
Figures 1 to 3 show an auger tube, mounted to a grain vacuum apparatus, in fully-extended, partly folded and fully folded positions, respectively. The auger tube 2 is mounted at its proximal end 4 to grain vacuum apparatus 6 with the interior of the auger operatively communicating with the vacuum apparatus. It will be seen that the auger tube may be mounted to any suitable base or equipment article. The distal end 8 of the auger tube features an intake nozzle 10. The preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a three-part folding auger, comprised of a proximal section 12, middle section 14, and distal section 16. Each auger tube houses a corresponding auger flighting, as will be illustrated and discussed in greater detail below. The auger flightings are keyed together for common rotatable operation. In the fully-extended position of Figure 1, the auger effectively comprises a linear, unitary auger structure.
During the folding process, as illustrated by the partly-folded position of Figure 2, it will be seen that the proximal auger section 12 remains stationary, while the middle section 14 is pivoted about a generally horizontal axis (i.e. the section travels within a generally vertical plane) and the distal section 16 is pivoted about an axis generally transverse to the axis of rotation of the middle section. Figure 2 shows in dotted lines the auger in the fully folded position, which is fizrther seen more particularly in Figure 3. The transverse axes of folding permits the middle and distal sections to pivot within intersecting planes, permitting them to lie generally side by side on the upper surface of the grain vacuum apparatus, as seen in Figure 3. This permits compact storage and transportation of the device.
The respective auger housings each feature a flange 24 at an end of the housing for contact with an abutting housing. The flanges 24 each have a mating surface 26 for contact with an abutting housing. The flanges 24 each have a mating surface 26 for contact with an abutting flange. The flanges 24 permit the housings 12-16 to generally sealingly engage each other when the apparatus is in its extended, operating position.
Turning to Figures 4-6, adjacent auger housings 12 to 16 are hinged together by means of paired external hinge sets 30 and 40, joining the sections 12 and 14 (hinge 30) and 14 and 16 (hinge 40). Each hinge set 30 and 40 consists of paired scissors hinges (a) and (b) mounted adjacent to each other, in parallel spaced relation. Each hinge (a) and (b) comprises first and second folding legs 33(a) and 33(b), respectively, joined centrally by a pivot joint 33(c). The respective free ends of the legs are each pivotally mounted to a corresponding auger housing section. A
central folding arm 35 is disposed between the hinges 30, the respective ends of the arm being each mounted to adjacent section. The arm extends outwardly from the auger tube to form a tentlike hinge structure, the apex of the structure comprising a pivot joint 31 joining first and second limbs 37(a) and (b) of the arm pivotally together. The arm 35 thus folds and unfolds in concert with the relative movement of the corresponding auger housing sections.
The folding action of the proximal and middle auger sections is driven by a hydraulic piston 32 pivotally mounted at its stationary end to the proximal housing 12 by way of pivot mount 34.
The actuator rod 36 of hydraulic piston 32 is pivotally mounted at its distal end to the pivot joint 31 of the folding arm 35. It will be seen that retraction of rod 36 draws the apex of arm 35 proximally towards the proximate end of the conveyor, thus rotating the middle conveyor section 14 about a generally vertical plane into a folded position. Extension of actuator rod 36 achieves the opposite motion, unfolding the middle section 14. As the housing sections unfold, they diverge apart from each other. This function results from the pivotal mounting of the legs 33 and 37 whereby the respective mounts are displaced from the joint between respective adjacent housing sections.
The proximal and distal housing sections are linked by tie rod 46. A rigid elongate tie rod mount plate 49 is mounted at one end to the proximate housing 12, and parallel thereto. The second end of the tie rod mount plate extends outwardly past the distal end of the housing _7_ section 12. The proximal end of the tie rod 46 is pivotally mounted by way of pivot joint 48 to the second end of the mount 49. The distal end of the tie rod 46 is pivotally mounted at pivot joint 31 to the apex of folding arm 35 on the distal housing section 16. It will be seen that as the proximal and middle housing sections are folded together by the retraction of piston 32, and the respective housings diverge, the tie rod 46 will be retracted longitudinally relative to the middle and distal housings. The retractive displacement of the rod 46 urges the apex of the hinge 30(b) in a proximal direction. This in turn folds the distal auger section 16 inwardly towards the middle auger section.
The hinges 30 and 40 are mounted such that their respective apices are displaced by about 90° relative to each other. Thus, in the preferred version, the hinge 30 extends generally upwardly from the auger tube while the hinge 40 extends generally horizontally from the auger tube. The rotational displacement of the respective hinges permits the distal auger section 16 to be folded about a plane generally transverse to the plane of folding of the proximal and middle sections. Further, the tie rod 46 is angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the auger tube, penmitting the tie rod to translate the generally horizontal folding axis of auger sections 12 and 14 into a substantially vertical folding axis of auger section 16.
The hydraulic cylinder 32 is driven by a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid, not shown, and is controlled by control means, not shown, all in a fashion well known in the prior art.
There may further be provided a strap or other retaining means, not shown, to bundle the auger sections together in their fully folded positions.
The auger flightings 60 are rotatably journalled within their respective auger housings. The respective auger shafts 62 are releasably joined together by means of a keyway or other releasable drive coupling means, to communicate rotational drive from the first, drive auger flighting to second and subsequent, driven auger flightings. A first auger flighting, is rotatably driven by conventional drive means, not shown.
_$_ Although the invention has been described by way of a preferred embodiment thereof, it will be seen by those experienced in the prior art to which the invention pertains that numerous variations and departures from the described embodiment may be made, while still remaining within the spirit and scope of the present invention, as the present invention is defined in the appended claims.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to materials transport, such as grain or the like. In particular, the invention relates to a foldable auger, comprising an auger tube and auger flighting, for use in transporting grain or other particulate or fluid material. The auger comprises three or more sections that may be folded in on themselves for transport or storage, with the folding being actuated by a single hydraulic cylinder or other like actuating means.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In a mobile conveying apparatus, for example a transportable grain auger apparatus, it is desirable to provide a means whereby a lengthy elongate conveyor may be folded for storage and transport. Typical grain conveyors incorporate a lengthy auger, comprising an auger tube, auger ffighting and drive means for rotating the auger. It can be awkward to transport and store such apparatus. Foldable conveyors, including foldable augers, are known in the prior art. For example, U.S. Patent 3,337,068 (Meharry) discloses an auger arrangement, wherein the main auger flighting and housing is foldable in two parts about a central hinged joint. The respective auger flightings in the first and second parts are keyed together when the auger is unfolded for use to permit the flighting in the first part to rotatably drive the flighting of the second part. One drawback of the arrangement disclosed in this reference is that the operator is required to manually fold the auger, which may be difficult if the auger is heavy or is positioned inaccessibly. As well, two-part folding of the auger may not suffciently compact the unit for transport or storage. The first drawback has been addressed in the art by providing a power-driven arrangement for folding an auger or other conveyor.
For example, U.S. Patent 3,550,793 (Davidow et al.) discloses a folding auger, wherein the folding and unfolding operation is driven by a hydraulic cylinder. A similar arrangement is shown in U.S. Patent 4,427,105 (Hawley et al.).
It is further known to provide conveyors foldable in three or more parts to provide for more ,. 2 compact storage or transport. For example, U.S. latent 4,69,262 (van Aalst) discloses a pneumatic duct foldable in three parts, and supported by a folding, hydraulically driven exterior frame. Folding of the ti-ame i~ ~t~ected by a separate hydraulic cylinder mounted at each fold.
It is desirable to provide an aug~r~type cc,nveyor that is foldable in three or more sections into a relatively compact unit, and wherein a. i,irrgle hydraulic cylinder or other motive force effects the folding operation. The use ol' a single cylinder, rather than a separate cylinder at each joint, reduces the cost and complexity of the device and also permits a coordinated folding operation ofthe conveyor without the need fear ~;orytrolling and coordinating multiple hydraulic cylinders. Such an operation°i i5 possible through the use of' tie rods that link adjacent conveyor sections, with a single hydraulic cylinder nerving both to drive the folding of adjacent sections and actuate tla~ tie rod car reds.
Tt is also desirable to provide a conveyor foldable in three or more sections, wherein the folding occurs on intersecting planes. Thus, l«r example, a proximal and middle conveyor section might fold on a horizontal plane and the distal section fold on a vertical plane. This arrangement can permit a more compact folding of the conveyor, and is particularly useful where the conveyor extends from a large piece of ecluipnaent such as a grain vacuum device.
In this case, the proximal sections of the conveyor should field irt a vertical plane to permit a section of the conveyor to rest on top ot'the equipment, while the distal conveyor section is conveniently folded on a horizontal lal~~ne., ire order that it nray lie beside the proximal folded sections of the conveyor.
The terms "proximal" and "distal" used herein are directional references referring to positions close to and distant fiom, respectively, the att:ack3nrent point or base of the auger.
SUNflVIARY OF THE INVEh1TI01~1 It is an aspect of the present invention to pr°ovid~ conveyor and conveyor housing foldable in three or more parts, and wherein folding is effected by means of a single hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder or other actuator means. It is a further aspect to provide a folding conveyor, wherein the proximal sections ofthe conve.yar housing fold along a first plane and the distal section folds on a second plane generally interesting the first plane.
The invention comprises in orre aspect a conveyor apparatus comprising an elongate conveyor housing and material transport means within the housing and comprising first, second and third conveyor sections pivotally~ained together, foldable about first and second pivot means between an extended coaxial arrangement and a folded non-coaxial arrangement and farming when fully extended, a unitary cc,~raveyor;
first retraction means connected to the second sectiarr to IK~Id tire first and second sections about a first axis;
second retraction means associated with said third section to fold said third section relative to said second section about a second axis; and linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby the first retraction means operatively drives said secaxnd r~etractiarr means to fold said third section relative to said second section.
Preferably, the second axis is rotationally displaced Ii~orn the first axis by about ~0 degrees.
In another aspect, the housing sections are joined together by first and second hinges, each comprising first and second hinge legs. Ea~;h of the hinge legs has a first end pivotally mounted to a respective conveyor housing section irabaard of a. corresponding end of said housing, and a second end meeting at are apex of' said hinge wherein said legs are pivotally pointed together at said apex, said hinge fornuir~g a generally triangular structure with said conveyor to longitudinally displace said sections apart loom each other as said sections are folded about said hinge. The first retraction means may be pivotally mounted at an end thereof to said first hinge at generally the ~Gpex thereafT.
Conveniently, the linkage means comprises a tie rod having first and second ends, said first Conveniently, the linkage means comprises a tie rod having first and second ends, said first end mounted to said first conveyor sec;tiorr .and said second end pivotally mounted to the third conveyor section.
In a further aspect, the invention comprises an auger comprising an auger housing and an auger flighting, said auger being foldable in at least three sections and comprising retraction means associated with said first and second sections arid operable between first and second positions whereby in said first position said first and second sections are fully extended and in said second position said sections are folded about a first axis; second retraction means associated with said third section arrd operabte between first and second positions whereby in said first position said third auger section is fully extended to relative to said second section and in said second position, said third section is folded relative to said second section about a second axis; and linkage rnearrs associated with said first and second retraction means whereby actuation of said first retractic:~n means operates said second retraction means between said first and second positions.
In another aspect, the present invention c~ompr ices a conveyor housing apparatus comprising a conveyor housing for connection to an auger system, the housing having a first conveyor section proximal to the auger system, at least second arvd third foldable conveyor sections foldable one relative to tire other, first pivot means lvr pivotally mounting the first and second sections about a. ~rst axis, whereby the second see,tiory is foldable about the first pivot axis, second pivot means for pivotally r~rounting the second and third sections about a second pivot axis whereby the third section is foldable about the second pivot axis, the first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial arrangement when folded, and when in a non-folded relationship, the first, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxial urutary conveyor, first retraction means associated with tlrcsecond section to fold the second section about the first axis, second retraction rrreans associated with the third section to fold the third section about the jecorrd axis, and floe first and second retraction means _~ aw being in operative association whereby actuation ofthe first retraction means is effective to permit the second retraction means to ti~rd the third section relative to the second section.
In another aspect, the present invention cranapr~ises a conveyor housing apparatus comprising an elongate conveyor housing and material transport rtleans within the housing, the conveyor housing having first, second and thiod conveyor sections pivotally joined together and foldable about first and second pivot ri3ean s between an extended coaxial arrangement and a folded non-coaxial arrangement and forming when fully extended, a unitary conveyor, first retraction means connected to the second section to fold the first and second sections about a first axis, actuation means for driving the first retraction means, second retraction means associated with the third section to permit 1'aldir~g of"the third section relative to the second section about a second axis, linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby actuation o#° the first retraction nieaivs by the actuation means synchronously drives the second retraction means to fold the third section relative to the second section, and first and second pivot r~rmans comprising first and second hinge means angularly displaced from each other, each of the hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, the legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from the conveyor housing for displacing the conveyor sections apart from each other when the hinges open.
According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an auger housing for enclosing an auger campr~ising a first proximal housing section for connection to an auger system, second and third foldable krc~usirig sections, first pivot means for pivotally mounting the first and second sections about a first axis, whereby the second section is foldable about the first pivot axis, second pivot means for pivotally mounting the second and third sections about a second pivot axis; whereby the third section is foldable about the second pivot axis, the first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial auger housing . ;.~ b _.
arrangement when folded, and when in a non~folded relationship, the fast, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxial unitary auger housing, first retraction means associated with the second section to tall the second section about the first axis, second retraction means associated with the third section to f~rld the third section about the second axis, the first and second retraction means being in operative association whereby actuation of the first retraction means is effective tc.~ permit the second retraction means to fold the third section relative to the second section.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an auger housing foldable in at least three sections comprising at least Iirst, second and third hauling sections first retraction means associated with the fiirst and ses~ond sections and operable between first and second positions whereby ire the first pcrsitian floe frr~st arrd second sections are fully extended and in the second position tl~e sectiarrs are fazded about a first axis, actuator means associated with the first retraction means, second retraa;tion means associated with the third section and operable between first and second pasiti~>ras whereby in the first ;position the third auger section il fully extended reiat.iv~; to tyre second section and in the second position, and the third section is folded relative, to the second section about a second axis, the second retraction means comprising lirika~;e means associated with the inrst and second retraction means whereby actuation af' tl~e tir-st r-etractiarr means by the actuator means operates the second retraction r~aearis b~.~tweer~ the Iirsr and second positions of the second and third sections.
In another aspect of the invention, there is ltrc:avided an auger comprising an auger housing and an auger flighting, the auger being fi~~ldable in at least three sections, the auger housing comprising f rst, second arrd third hausiry sections, lirvst retraction means associated with the first and second sections and operable between tir°sc a,nd second positions whereby in the first position the first and second sectiarrs ar°e fully extended and in the second position the _4c_ sections are folded about a first axis, actuator means associated with the first retraction means, second retraction means associated with the third section and operable between first and second positions whereby in the first position the third auger section is fully extended to relative to the second section and in the second position, the third section is folded relative to the second section about a second axis, linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby actuation of the first retraction means by the actuator means synchronously drives the second retraction means between the first and second positions, first and second pivot means comprising first and second hinge means angulariy displaced from each other, each of the hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, the legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from the conveyor housing for displacing the conveyor sections apart from each other when the hinges open, and a plurality of foldable releasably connectable auger flighting sections.
The present invention will now be described by way of a preferred embodiment.
In accordance with one embodiment of the present irlvention there is provided a conveyor housing apparatus comprising, a conveyor housing for connection to an auger system, the housing having a first conveyor section proximal to the auger system, at least second and third foldable conveyor sections foldable one relative to the other, first pivot means for pivotally mounting the first and second sections about a first axis, whereby the second section is foldable about the first pivot axis, second pivot means for pivotally mounting the second and third sections about a second pivot axis whereby the third section is foldable about the second pivot axis, the first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial arrangement when folded, and when in a non-folded relationship, the first, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxiial unitary conveyor, first retraction means associated with the second section to fold the second section about the first axis, actuation means to operate the first retraction means, -4d-second retraction means associated with the third section to fold the third section about the second axis, and, the first and second retraction means being in operative association whereby actuation of the first retraction means operatively drives the second retraction means to fold the third section relative to the second section.
In a second embodiment of the present invention there is provided a conveyor housing apparatus comprising an elongate conveyor housing and material transport means within the housing, the conveyor housing having first, second and third conveyor sections pivotally joined together and foldable about first and second pivot means between an extended coaxial arrangement and a folded non-coaxial arrangement and forming when fully extended, a unitary conveyor, first retraction means connected to the second section to fold the first and second sections about a first axis, actuation means 'for driving the first retraction means second retraction means associated with the third section to permit folding of the third section relative to the second section about a second axis, linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby actuation of the first retraction means by the actuation means synchronously drives the second retraction means to fold the third ~;ection relative to the second section, and first and second pivot means comprising first and second hinge means angularly displaced from each other, each of the hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, the legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from the conveyor housing for displacing the conveyor sections apart from each other when the hinges open.
In a third embodiment of the present invention there is provided an auger housing for enclosing an auger the auger housing comprising, a first proximal housing section for connection to an auger system, second and third foldable housing sections, first pivot means for pivotally mounting the first and second sections about a first axis, whereby the second section is foldable about the first pivot axis, second pivot means for pivotally mounting the second and third -4e-sections about a second pivot axis whereby the third section is foldable about the second pivot axis, the first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial auger housing arrangement when folded, and when in a non-folded relationship, b the first, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxial unitary auger housing, first retraction means associated with the second section to fold the second section about the first axis, actuation means. to operate the first retraction means, second retraction means associated with the third section to fold the third section about the second axis, and the first and second retraction means being in operative association whereby actuation of the first retraction means operatively drives the second retraction means to fold the third section relative to the second section.
In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention there is provided an auger housing foldable in at least three sections comprising, at least first, second and third housing sections, first retraction means associated with the first and second sections and operable between fiirst and second positions whereby in the first position the first and second sections are fully extended and in the second position the sections are folded about a first axis, actuator means associated with the first retraction means, second retraction means associated with the third section and operable between first and second positions whereby in the first position the third auger section is fully extended relative to the second section and in the second position, and the third section is folded relative to the second section about a second axis, and the second retraction means comprising linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby actuation of the first retraction means by the actuator means operates the second retraction means between the first and sE:cond positions of the second and third sections.
In accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an auger comprising, an auger housing and an auger flighting, the auger being foldable in at least three sections, the auger housing comprising, -4f-first, second and third housing sections, first retraction means associated with the first and second sections and operable between first and second positions whereby in the first position the first and second sections are fully extended and in the second position the sections are folded about a first axis, actuator means associated with the first retraction means, second rearaction means associated with the third section and operable between first and second positions whereby in the first position the third auger section is fully extended to relative to the second section and in the second position, the third section is folded relative to the second section about a second axis, linkage means associated with the first and second retraction means whereby actuation of the first retraction means by the actuator means synchronously drives the second retraction means between the first and second positions, first and second pivot means comprising first and second hinge means angularly displaced from each other, each of the hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, the legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from the conveyor housing for displacing the conveyor sections apart from each other when the hinges open, and a plurality of foldable releasably connectable auger flighting sections.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of an auger according to the present invention, in extended position and mounted to a grain vacuum apparatus, with the auger folding means removed for illustration of the auger components;
Figure 2 is a perspective view as in Figure 1, illustrating the auger in a partly folded position;
Figure 3 is a perspective view, showing the auger in folded position;
Figure 4 is a further perspective view of the device in the extended position;
-S-Figure 5 is a side elevational view of the device in the extended position;
and Figure 6 is a side elevational view of the device in a partly-folded position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIIVVIENT
Figures 1 to 3 show an auger tube, mounted to a grain vacuum apparatus, in fully-extended, partly folded and fully folded positions, respectively. The auger tube 2 is mounted at its proximal end 4 to grain vacuum apparatus 6 with the interior of the auger operatively communicating with the vacuum apparatus. It will be seen that the auger tube may be mounted to any suitable base or equipment article. The distal end 8 of the auger tube features an intake nozzle 10. The preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a three-part folding auger, comprised of a proximal section 12, middle section 14, and distal section 16. Each auger tube houses a corresponding auger flighting, as will be illustrated and discussed in greater detail below. The auger flightings are keyed together for common rotatable operation. In the fully-extended position of Figure 1, the auger effectively comprises a linear, unitary auger structure.
During the folding process, as illustrated by the partly-folded position of Figure 2, it will be seen that the proximal auger section 12 remains stationary, while the middle section 14 is pivoted about a generally horizontal axis (i.e. the section travels within a generally vertical plane) and the distal section 16 is pivoted about an axis generally transverse to the axis of rotation of the middle section. Figure 2 shows in dotted lines the auger in the fully folded position, which is fizrther seen more particularly in Figure 3. The transverse axes of folding permits the middle and distal sections to pivot within intersecting planes, permitting them to lie generally side by side on the upper surface of the grain vacuum apparatus, as seen in Figure 3. This permits compact storage and transportation of the device.
The respective auger housings each feature a flange 24 at an end of the housing for contact with an abutting housing. The flanges 24 each have a mating surface 26 for contact with an abutting housing. The flanges 24 each have a mating surface 26 for contact with an abutting flange. The flanges 24 permit the housings 12-16 to generally sealingly engage each other when the apparatus is in its extended, operating position.
Turning to Figures 4-6, adjacent auger housings 12 to 16 are hinged together by means of paired external hinge sets 30 and 40, joining the sections 12 and 14 (hinge 30) and 14 and 16 (hinge 40). Each hinge set 30 and 40 consists of paired scissors hinges (a) and (b) mounted adjacent to each other, in parallel spaced relation. Each hinge (a) and (b) comprises first and second folding legs 33(a) and 33(b), respectively, joined centrally by a pivot joint 33(c). The respective free ends of the legs are each pivotally mounted to a corresponding auger housing section. A
central folding arm 35 is disposed between the hinges 30, the respective ends of the arm being each mounted to adjacent section. The arm extends outwardly from the auger tube to form a tentlike hinge structure, the apex of the structure comprising a pivot joint 31 joining first and second limbs 37(a) and (b) of the arm pivotally together. The arm 35 thus folds and unfolds in concert with the relative movement of the corresponding auger housing sections.
The folding action of the proximal and middle auger sections is driven by a hydraulic piston 32 pivotally mounted at its stationary end to the proximal housing 12 by way of pivot mount 34.
The actuator rod 36 of hydraulic piston 32 is pivotally mounted at its distal end to the pivot joint 31 of the folding arm 35. It will be seen that retraction of rod 36 draws the apex of arm 35 proximally towards the proximate end of the conveyor, thus rotating the middle conveyor section 14 about a generally vertical plane into a folded position. Extension of actuator rod 36 achieves the opposite motion, unfolding the middle section 14. As the housing sections unfold, they diverge apart from each other. This function results from the pivotal mounting of the legs 33 and 37 whereby the respective mounts are displaced from the joint between respective adjacent housing sections.
The proximal and distal housing sections are linked by tie rod 46. A rigid elongate tie rod mount plate 49 is mounted at one end to the proximate housing 12, and parallel thereto. The second end of the tie rod mount plate extends outwardly past the distal end of the housing _7_ section 12. The proximal end of the tie rod 46 is pivotally mounted by way of pivot joint 48 to the second end of the mount 49. The distal end of the tie rod 46 is pivotally mounted at pivot joint 31 to the apex of folding arm 35 on the distal housing section 16. It will be seen that as the proximal and middle housing sections are folded together by the retraction of piston 32, and the respective housings diverge, the tie rod 46 will be retracted longitudinally relative to the middle and distal housings. The retractive displacement of the rod 46 urges the apex of the hinge 30(b) in a proximal direction. This in turn folds the distal auger section 16 inwardly towards the middle auger section.
The hinges 30 and 40 are mounted such that their respective apices are displaced by about 90° relative to each other. Thus, in the preferred version, the hinge 30 extends generally upwardly from the auger tube while the hinge 40 extends generally horizontally from the auger tube. The rotational displacement of the respective hinges permits the distal auger section 16 to be folded about a plane generally transverse to the plane of folding of the proximal and middle sections. Further, the tie rod 46 is angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the auger tube, penmitting the tie rod to translate the generally horizontal folding axis of auger sections 12 and 14 into a substantially vertical folding axis of auger section 16.
The hydraulic cylinder 32 is driven by a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid, not shown, and is controlled by control means, not shown, all in a fashion well known in the prior art.
There may further be provided a strap or other retaining means, not shown, to bundle the auger sections together in their fully folded positions.
The auger flightings 60 are rotatably journalled within their respective auger housings. The respective auger shafts 62 are releasably joined together by means of a keyway or other releasable drive coupling means, to communicate rotational drive from the first, drive auger flighting to second and subsequent, driven auger flightings. A first auger flighting, is rotatably driven by conventional drive means, not shown.
_$_ Although the invention has been described by way of a preferred embodiment thereof, it will be seen by those experienced in the prior art to which the invention pertains that numerous variations and departures from the described embodiment may be made, while still remaining within the spirit and scope of the present invention, as the present invention is defined in the appended claims.
Claims (49)
1. A conveyor housing apparatus comprising:
- a conveyor housing for connection to an auger system, said housing having:
- a first conveyor section proximal to said auger system;
- at least second and third foldable conveyor sections foldable one relative to the other;
- first pivot means for pivotally mounting said first and second sections about a first axis, whereby said second section is foldable about said first pivot axis;
- second pivot means for pivotally mounting said second and third sections about a second pivot axis whereby said third section is foldable about said second pivot axis;
- said first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial arrangement when folded, and when in a non-folded relationship, said first, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxial unitary conveyor;
- first retraction means associated with said second section to fold said second section about said first axis;
- actuation means to operate said first retraction means;
- second retraction means associated with said third section to fold said third section about said second axis, and - said first and second retraction means being in operative association whereby actuation of said first retraction means operatively drives said second retraction means to fold said third section relative to said second section.
- a conveyor housing for connection to an auger system, said housing having:
- a first conveyor section proximal to said auger system;
- at least second and third foldable conveyor sections foldable one relative to the other;
- first pivot means for pivotally mounting said first and second sections about a first axis, whereby said second section is foldable about said first pivot axis;
- second pivot means for pivotally mounting said second and third sections about a second pivot axis whereby said third section is foldable about said second pivot axis;
- said first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial arrangement when folded, and when in a non-folded relationship, said first, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxial unitary conveyor;
- first retraction means associated with said second section to fold said second section about said first axis;
- actuation means to operate said first retraction means;
- second retraction means associated with said third section to fold said third section about said second axis, and - said first and second retraction means being in operative association whereby actuation of said first retraction means operatively drives said second retraction means to fold said third section relative to said second section.
2. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein said first retraction means includes a movable arm member, and means to move said arm member between first and second positions.
3. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein said second retraction means includes a movable arm member, and means to move said arm member between first and second positions.
4. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein said first retraction means includes piston means.
5. An apparatus as defined in claim 2, wherein said first retraction means includes piston means associated with said movable arm to effect movement of said arm between said first and second positions.
6. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein said second retraction means includes linkage means.
7. An apparatus as defined in claim 3, wherein said second retraction means includes linkage means operatively associated with said movable arm to move said arm between said first and second positions.
8. A conveyor housing apparatus comprising an elongate conveyor housing and material transport means within said housing, said conveyor housing having:
- first, second and third conveyor sections pivotally joined together and foldable about first and second pivot means between an extended coaxial arrangement and a folded non-coaxial arrangement and forming when fully extended, a unitary conveyor;
- first retraction means connected to said second section to fold said first and second sections about a first axis;
- actuation means for driving said first retraction means;
- second retraction means associated with said third section to permit folding of said third section relative to said second section about a second axis;
- linkage means associated with said first and second retraction means whereby actuation of said first retraction means by said actuation means synchronously drives said second retraction means to fold said third section relative to said second section, and - first and second pivot means comprising first and second hinge means angularly displaced from each other, each of said hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, said legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from said conveyor housing for displacing said conveyor sections apart from each other when said hinges open.
- first, second and third conveyor sections pivotally joined together and foldable about first and second pivot means between an extended coaxial arrangement and a folded non-coaxial arrangement and forming when fully extended, a unitary conveyor;
- first retraction means connected to said second section to fold said first and second sections about a first axis;
- actuation means for driving said first retraction means;
- second retraction means associated with said third section to permit folding of said third section relative to said second section about a second axis;
- linkage means associated with said first and second retraction means whereby actuation of said first retraction means by said actuation means synchronously drives said second retraction means to fold said third section relative to said second section, and - first and second pivot means comprising first and second hinge means angularly displaced from each other, each of said hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, said legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from said conveyor housing for displacing said conveyor sections apart from each other when said hinges open.
9. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 or 8, wherein said second pivot means is positioned relative to said first pivot means in an angular relationship of about 90°.
10. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 or 8, wherein said first and second pivot means comprises first and second hinge means, said first and second hinge means each arranged for pivotal movement about a respective axis, the respective axes being rotationally displaced from each other.
11. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 or 8, wherein said first and second hinge means each comprise first and second hinge legs, each of said hinge legs having a first end pivotally mounted to a respective conveyor section at a corresponding end of said section, and a second end meeting at an apex of said hinge means wherein said legs are pivotally jointed together at said apex, said hinge means forming a generally triangular structure with said conveyor to longitudinally displace said sections apart from each other as said sections are folded about said hinge means.
12. An apparatus as defined in claim 11, wherein said first retraction means is pivotally mounted at an end thereof to said first hinge at generally the apex thereof.
13. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, 2, or 4, wherein said second retraction means comprises linkage means having a tie rod with first and second ends, said first end of said tie rod pivotally connected to said first conveyor section and said second end of said tie rod pivotally connected to said third conveyor section.
14. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein said first conveyor section is a stationary conveyor section.
15. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein said third conveyor section is pivotable about an axis generally transverse to the axis of rotation of said second section.
16. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein each conveyor section includes a flange adapted to abut a co-operating flange of an adjacent conveyor section.
17. An apparatus as defined in claim 8, wherein said hinges comprise scissor hinges.
18. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein said first retraction means is fixedly mounted to said first conveyor section.
19. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said second retraction means operatively links said first and third conveyor sections.
20. An apparatus as defined in claim 13, wherein said rod is angularly mounted relative to the longitudinal axis of said second conveyor section.
21. An apparatus as defined in claim 8, wherein said tie rod is pivotally mounted at said first end to a mounting member fixedly mounted to said first conveyor section and extending distally outwardly therefrom.
22. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 1 to 21, further including an auger, said auger comprising three separate releasably connectable auger flights.
23. An auger housing for enclosing an auger the auger housing comprising:
- a first proximal housing section for connection to an auger system;
- second and third foldable housing sections;
- first pivot means for pivotally mounting said first and second sections about a first axis, whereby said second section is foldable about said first pivot axis;
- second pivot means for pivotally mounting said second and third sections about a second pivot axis whereby said third section is foldable about said second pivot axis;
- said first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial auger housing arrangement when folded, and when in a non-folded relationship, said first, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxial unitary auger housing;
- first retraction means associated with said second section to fold said second section about said first axis;
- actuation means to operate said first retraction means - second retraction means associated with said third section to fold said third section about said second axis, and - said first and second retraction means being in operative association whereby actuation of said first retraction means operatively drives said second retraction means to fold said third section relative to said second section.
- a first proximal housing section for connection to an auger system;
- second and third foldable housing sections;
- first pivot means for pivotally mounting said first and second sections about a first axis, whereby said second section is foldable about said first pivot axis;
- second pivot means for pivotally mounting said second and third sections about a second pivot axis whereby said third section is foldable about said second pivot axis;
- said first, second and third sections forming a non-coaxial auger housing arrangement when folded, and when in a non-folded relationship, said first, second and third sections form a fully extended coaxial unitary auger housing;
- first retraction means associated with said second section to fold said second section about said first axis;
- actuation means to operate said first retraction means - second retraction means associated with said third section to fold said third section about said second axis, and - said first and second retraction means being in operative association whereby actuation of said first retraction means operatively drives said second retraction means to fold said third section relative to said second section.
24. An apparatus as defined in claim 23, wherein said first retraction means includes a movable arm member, and means to move said arm member between first and second positions.
25. An apparatus as defined in claim 23 or 24, wherein said second retraction means includes a movable arm member, and means to move said arm member between first and second positions.
26. An apparatus as defined in claim 23, wherein said first retraction means includes piston means.
27. An apparatus as defined in claim 24, wherein said first retraction means includes piston means associated with said movable arm to effect movement of said arm between said first and second positions.
28. An apparatus as defined in claim 23 or 24, wherein said second retraction means includes linkage means.
29. An apparatus as defined in claim 25, wherein said second retraction means includes linkage means operatively associated with said movable arm to move said arm between said first and second positions.
30. An auger housing foldable in at least three sections comprising:
- at least first, second and third housing sections;
- first retraction means associated with said first and second sections and operable between first and second positions whereby in said first position said first and second sections are fully extended and in said second position said sections are folded about a first axis;
- actuator means associated with said first retraction means;
- second retraction means associated with said third section and operable between first and second positions whereby in said first position said third auger section is fully extended relative to said second section and in said second position, and said third section is folded relative to said second section about a second axis, and - said second retraction means comprising linkage means associated with said first and second retraction means whereby actuation of said first retraction means by said actuator means operates said second retraction means between said first and second positions of said second and third sections.
- at least first, second and third housing sections;
- first retraction means associated with said first and second sections and operable between first and second positions whereby in said first position said first and second sections are fully extended and in said second position said sections are folded about a first axis;
- actuator means associated with said first retraction means;
- second retraction means associated with said third section and operable between first and second positions whereby in said first position said third auger section is fully extended relative to said second section and in said second position, and said third section is folded relative to said second section about a second axis, and - said second retraction means comprising linkage means associated with said first and second retraction means whereby actuation of said first retraction means by said actuator means operates said second retraction means between said first and second positions of said second and third sections.
31. An auger comprising - an auger housing and an auger flighting, said auger being foldable in at least three sections, said auger housing comprising:
- first, second and third housing sections;
- first retraction means associated with said first and second sections and operable between first and second positions whereby in said first position said first and second sections are fully extended and in said second position said sections are folded about a first axis;
- actuator means associated with said first retraction means;
- second retraction means associated with said third section and operable between first and second positions whereby in said first position said third auger section is fully extended to relative to said second section and in said second position, said third section is folded relative to said second section about a second axis;
- linkage means associated with said first and second retraction means whereby actuation of said first retraction means by said actuator means synchronously drives said second retraction means between said first and second positions;
- first and second pivot means comprising first and second hinge means angularly displaced from each other, each of said hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, said legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from said conveyor housing for displacing said conveyor sections apart from each other when said hinges open, and - a plurality of foldable releasably connectable auger flighting sections.
- first, second and third housing sections;
- first retraction means associated with said first and second sections and operable between first and second positions whereby in said first position said first and second sections are fully extended and in said second position said sections are folded about a first axis;
- actuator means associated with said first retraction means;
- second retraction means associated with said third section and operable between first and second positions whereby in said first position said third auger section is fully extended to relative to said second section and in said second position, said third section is folded relative to said second section about a second axis;
- linkage means associated with said first and second retraction means whereby actuation of said first retraction means by said actuator means synchronously drives said second retraction means between said first and second positions;
- first and second pivot means comprising first and second hinge means angularly displaced from each other, each of said hinge means comprising a pair of legs joined to a corresponding section, said legs being pivotally joined together at a position displaced from said conveyor housing for displacing said conveyor sections apart from each other when said hinges open, and - a plurality of foldable releasably connectable auger flighting sections.
32. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 23 to 31, wherein said second axis is rotationally displaced from said first axis by about 90°.
33. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein said pivot means comprises first and second hinge means, said first and second hinge means each arranged for pivotal movement about a respective axis, the respective axes being rotationally displaced from each other by about 90°.
34. An apparatus as defined in claim 33, wherein said first and second hinge means each comprise first and second hinge legs extending outwardly from said housing, each of said hinge legs having a base pivotally mounted to a respective housing section, said hinge legs forming an apex where said legs are pivotally joined together.
35. An apparatus as defined in claim 34, wherein said first retraction means is pivotally mounted at an end thereof to said first hinge at generally the apex thereof.
36. An apparatus as defined in claim 30 or 31, wherein said actuator comprises a fluid-driven reciprocating cylinder.
37. An apparatus as defined in claim 34, wherein at least one of said first and second hinge means comprises a generally triangular structure.
38. An apparatus as defined in claim 31, wherein said linkage means comprises a tie rod having first and second ends, said first end pivotally connected to said first housing section and said second end pivotally connected to said third housing section.
39. An apparatus as defined in claim 38, wherein said tie rod is pivotally connected at said first end to a mounting member fixedly mounted to said first housing section and extending distally outwardly therefrom.
40. An apparatus as defined in claim 31, 32 or 33, wherein at least one of said first and second hinge means comprises a generally triangular structure.
41. An apparatus as defined in claim 31, 32 or 33, wherein said first retraction means is pivotally mounted at an end thereof to said first hinge at generally the apex thereof.
42. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 23 to 41, wherein said first housing section is a stationary housing section.
43. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 23 to 31, wherein said third housing section is pivotable about an axis generally transverse to the axis of rotation of said second section.
44. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 23 to 43, wherein each housing section includes a flange adapted to abut a co-operating flange of an adjacent housing section.
45. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein said hinges comprise scissor hinges.
46. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein said first retraction means is fixedly mounted to said first housing section.
47. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein said second retraction means operatively link said first and third housing sections.
48. An apparatus as defined in claim 38 or 39, wherein said rod is angularly mounted relative to the longitudinal axis of said second housing section.
49. An apparatus as defined in any one of claims 23 to 30, further including an auger, said auger comprising three separate releasably connectable auger flights.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2254384 CA2254384C (en) | 1998-11-23 | 1998-11-23 | Folding auger |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2254384 CA2254384C (en) | 1998-11-23 | 1998-11-23 | Folding auger |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2254384A1 CA2254384A1 (en) | 2000-05-23 |
| CA2254384C true CA2254384C (en) | 2006-07-11 |
Family
ID=29425700
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2254384 Expired - Lifetime CA2254384C (en) | 1998-11-23 | 1998-11-23 | Folding auger |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2254384C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN102001512A (en) * | 2010-11-05 | 2011-04-06 | 大连隆正光饰机制造有限公司 | Swinging belt conveyor |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2881727B1 (en) * | 2005-02-09 | 2007-05-18 | Brimont Agraire Sa | KIT FOR TRANSFERRING GRAIN AND / OR DISMANTLING FERTILIZER FOR AGRICULTURAL BEATS |
-
1998
- 1998-11-23 CA CA 2254384 patent/CA2254384C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN102001512A (en) * | 2010-11-05 | 2011-04-06 | 大连隆正光饰机制造有限公司 | Swinging belt conveyor |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2254384A1 (en) | 2000-05-23 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20181123 |